Hidden Passages by Vila SpiderHawk - Book Review by Dawn "Belladonna" Thomas

Hidden Passages: Tales to Honor the Crones

ISBN-10: 0979654564

I received this book in the mail and I was so excited when I opened the cover. The picture on the cover leads the reader to believe a magical journey is about to happen. That is exactly what happened to me. On the first page I was hooked. The story of Mima Po reminded me of the place I lived as a small child. The words were so vivid I could imagine being in the story too. 

The stories of the Maiden, Mother and Crone were so beautifully written. Changing the point of direction from the maiden to the mother to the grandmother was very intelligent thing to do. How many times do we wonder how others see the same story? In these stories the author makes it possible. In Nanu’s Story, I imagined the changes in the landscape and weather as Tichu travelled alone. I could feel the warmth she provided to others. The story of Gita’s Journey is a difficult road to travel for any parent. The author shows how a mother finds the strength she needs to live. It is a very moving and emotional story.

In the story of Lavinia I felt for Veronica as she travels unseen by others. But Helen is there and gives her the guidance to see where she needs to be. The book title refers to Crones but I believe that women of all ages would learn the lessons held within this book. I enjoy the easy way that the stories flow. I have a better appreciation on other views of each story. I am looking forward to reading Ms. VilaHawk’s next book.